by Kieran Carney

Created on: January 15, 2008

So you were minding your own business when along came a bright eyed, lovable critter on your doorstep. You approach the irresistible creature, as endless thoughts stream through your head. Where did this come from? How do I find out who owns this pet? And most importantly, what necessary safety precautions do I take to ensure I'll find a fitting home?

Each year, thousands of pets run away from home for reasons unknown. Several studies reveal as much as 10% of those lost pets are safely returned. That leaves a tragic 90% pet loss rate to run away animals. There are many simple ways to decrease the likelihood of your much loved pet from escaping, such as keeping them safely indoors, using padlocks on doors, keeping leashes on them at all times when going outside and being aware of strangers by reporting any unusual activity. When it comes to stray animals randomly appearing at your front door, the very first thing you want to do is check for identification. This may be a collar adorned with an easy to read address and contact information or can be as complicated as detecting a small rice-sized microchip underneath the skin. When you come across a more difficult case of a micro chipped pet or tattooed pet, complete with identification number, don't panic. All you have to do is pick up the phone and dial your local shelter. They should be able to quickly identify the lost pet. This is because veterinarians and animal shelters alike are given scanners that read the digital number inside the chip. Information is then established and the pet is returned to the proper home. Similar to microchips, pet tattoos are registered serial numbers given to a specific pet and when dropped off at a shelter, can provide the necessary information to reunite the pet with it's rightful owner.

If an incident happens where you cannot find the animal's owner, it is then determined by your own will and financial situation if adopting it is the right choice. Make sure, if you rent your home, your landlord will allow the particular pet on the property. Next, gather some information and read about the breed of pet you're about to bring in. Make an educated decision based on your findings, if the animal will receive the ideal care it needs. And lastly, but most importantly, take it to the veterinarian to assure it is in good health and condition. Once the pet is examined, if adopting is the best choice, take the safety precautions above to ensure your new friend won't run away again.

New pets can be exciting, enjoyable and have many health benefits such as reducing blood pressure. It's a truly wonderful union when healthy animals find a warm and loving new home. And even after adoption takes place, always keep up to date with shots and get your pet spayed or neutered to control the pet population.

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